Burglaries in the Mandurah area continue to be on top of the local police priority list, Mandurah police first class constable Rich Barnes said.

He said most home burglaries are happening during the day, and he urged residents to remain vigilant, report suspicious behaviour and secure their property.

The City of Mandurah’s top burglary hotspot, according to crime statistics from WA Police, is central Mandurah, with 77 burglaries reported to police between January and March this year.

Central Mandurah is followed by Greenfields and Safety Bay, with 46 and 25 burglaries reported respectively.

The lowest burglary numbers were recorded in Barragup, with only two burglaries reported in the same period.

Constable Barnes advised residents to keep their doors and windows locked at all times, to keep their valuables out of sight, to not leave a spare key hidden outside and to get rid of empty appliance boxes that could be seen by burglars.

He also reminded residents to keep their trees and shrubs trimmed to reduce the opportunity for burglars to hide, and to activate their alarm when leaving the house.

When going on holidays, constable Barnes advised community members to be mindful when posting information to Facebook suggesting they aren’t home, and recommended getting a relative to collect the mail.

He also said residents should consider investing on an alarm system and motion sensor lights to install outside.

“If you feel a crime is happening our about to happen then do not hesitate to call 000,” he said.

For more information about ways of avoiding being a victim of theft or burglary check WA Police’s Tougher for Crooks guide online.

To report any suspicious behaviour to police call 131 444. Alternatively, you can call CrimeStoppers on 1800 333 000 or report online at crimestopperswa.com.au.